Toshiba will be exhibiting its newly designed TZ1021MBG processor at the Electronica 2014 show which kicked off in Munich, Germany today. The ARM-based chip targets manufacturers of wearable technology and enables slimmer, smaller designs thanks to its low power and miniature proportions.

Toshiba wearables

The Toshiba TZ1021MBG application processor targets wearable technology use cases including IoT ready wearables and “smartwatches, bracelets, glasses and rings, as well as activity monitors” said Nalini Ranjan, senior business development manager, Logic LSI Business Unit, System LSI Group at TAEC (Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc). The processor’s particular blend of proportions, low power use, sensor integration and interfaces make it ideal for wearables.

The chip eschews any Bluetooth connectivity or accelerometer so isn’t suitable for devices which require those features. However Toshiba does create similar chips with both those components integrated. The TZ1021MBG offers basic wireless connectivity for communications.

While the chip is on display now, and is being sampled by manufacturers for their products, it is estimated that the first crop of devices powered by the TZ1021MBG will not arrive until at least March 2015, shortly after mass production starts.

Mark has worked for a number of years as a newshound on other technology news websites. He decided to write for Tech Assimilate thanks to this web site's open embracing vision of the fascinating world of personal technology. Mark has also worked in the printing and advertising industries for tens of years previously.